Local farms and farmers’ markets in the Hudson Valley and across New York state continue to be recognized for their contributions to the agricultural sector. Many of these are family-owned businesses, forming a significant part of the state’s economy.
According to State Assemblyman Karl Brabenec, “These hardworking, often family-owned farms and farm stands are the backbone of New York’s agricultural industry.” He encourages residents to visit local farms such as Peaceful Valley Dairy for dairy products or Finding Home Farms for maple syrup, noting that farmers’ markets provide a range of fresh products and help support local producers.
Brabenec described his experiences visiting various farms throughout his tenure. “Throughout my time as an Assemblyman, I’ve visited places like these and so many more, whether it was alongside other state leaders, during Farm-to-Table Tours in Assembly District 98, or celebrating ribbon cuttings for new agricultural businesses.” He cited data from the New York Farm Bureau indicating that agriculture generated over $8 billion in revenue statewide in 2022, with 98% of those farms being family-owned.
He emphasized the importance of supporting farmers: “It is critical we support our farmers and farming families who work tirelessly to ensure New Yorkers have access to healthy, fresh foods and naturally made products year-round. That is why I am proud to have cosponsored several proposals to help invest in New York’s booming agricultural industry and provide a much-needed voice in Albany for New York farmers.”
Among legislative efforts mentioned were Assembly proposal A.3623—which aimed to create the New York Food Insecurity, Farm Resiliency and Rural Poverty Initiative—and A.3221—to incentivize vendors sourcing goods produced within the state. Both proposals did not advance this year. Brabenec stated, “While these two proposals were unfortunately blocked by Albany’s lawmakers from moving forward this year, my colleagues and I will push to reintroduce these and fight for similar proposals so they can move forward in the near future.”
Brabenec also highlighted other bills he supports: “I am also a cosponsor of Assembly proposal A.4620, which will expand the farm building tax exemption to include on-farm buildings and structures used for processing crops produced on-farm, and A.154, which will help offset costs for property owners if their property is being used in the production of bio-energy crops by providing a real property tax exemption.”
Looking ahead at continued outreach efforts this summer within Assembly District 98, Brabenec said: “Hearing their concerns and ideas about the future of New York’s agricultural industry is essential, and I am committed to having their backs and always acting in their best interest.”
He concluded by urging public support ahead of National Farmer’s Day on October 12: “As we look forward to the upcoming fall harvest and National Farmer’s Day on October 12, 2025, I encourage everyone to get outside and visit local farm stands and farmers’ markets this summer! Our farmers play a vital role in our communities, and we must all do our part to help them continue to grow, expand and thrive for generations to come.”
New York remains one of the leading agricultural states nationally according to data from groups such as the New York Farm Bureau.
